The Power of Practicing Out Loud: Why Bold Leaders Stretch to Grow

When was the last time you truly practiced something that made you uncomfortable?

I’m not talking about passively reading a leadership book or nodding along in a webinar. I’m talking about practicing out loud—actively stretching yourself in real situations where you risk getting it wrong, looking clumsy, or learning something you didn’t expect.

Here’s the truth:
Leadership growth doesn’t happen in theory. It happens in practice. Bold, messy, creative practice.

Playing Safe Keeps You Stuck

Many leaders wait for the “perfect” time to start practicing new behaviors. They think:
“I need to be more prepared.”
“I need to have all the answers first.”
“I’ll practice when things settle down.”

But here’s the kicker—things rarely settle down.

When we delay practicing, we quietly reinforce what we already know—including the habits and beliefs that may no longer serve us.

Growth happens when we step into the messy middle, try new things, and risk stretching beyond what’s comfortable.

What Does Practicing Out Loud Look Like?

Practicing out loud is about being visible in your efforts to change and improve. It’s about being coachable in real time. It’s about allowing others to witness your learning journey instead of waiting until you’ve perfected it behind closed doors.

It might look like:

• Testing a new communication style in a high-stakes meeting.
  
• Inviting unexpected feedback from peers you’ve never asked before.
  
• Saying yes to a coaching exercise that pushes your usual boundaries.
  
• Volunteering for something you’ve never done—just to practice.
  

It’s not about always succeeding—it’s about being in motion.

This Summer, I’m Offering Something Different

I’m opening up a limited opportunity to work with two or three leaders over the summer—leaders who are ready to practice boldly, try creative coaching formats, and unlearn what’s been holding them back.

This isn’t your typical coaching setup. It’s practical. It’s immersive. It’s for those who are curious and courageous enough to say: I’m ready to stretch.

If you’re interested—or you know someone who is—let’s connect.
Nominate yourself or a peer. Let’s practice leadership, out loud, together.

👉 Start exploring tools right away in the Leader In Demand app.

👉 Want to discuss this opportunity? Contact me here.

Final Thought:

Bold leaders don’t wait until they’re “ready.” They practice now—imperfectly, visibly, and with purpose.

What’s one small thing you can practice out loud this week?

Let’s keep stretching,
Katy Caroan